Freetown, Sierra Leone – November 20, 2024 – The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has announced a no-fault settlement agreement with Ecobank Sierra Leone Limited, requiring the bank to reimburse Le34,825,176.87 to the state.
This repayment addresses funds that were misappropriated and diverted for personal use by an Ecobank employee, Abdul Salim Mansaray.
In a statement issued today, the ACC disclosed, “This settlement follows the provisions of Section 7 (1)(b) of the Anti-Corruption (Amendment Act), 2019. It ensures the restitution of funds originally intended for tax payments to the National Revenue Authority (NRA).”
Abdul Salim Mansaray, a former Ecobank staff member, allegedly embezzled the funds before fleeing the country. He has since returned and been charged with corruption-related offenses.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ecobank has already made an initial payment of Le15 million to the ACC. The remaining balance will be paid in nine monthly installments of Le2,202,797.43, beginning January 25, 2025, and concluding by September 25, 2025.
“This agreement allows the ACC to withdraw its legal claims against Ecobank. However, this should not be seen as an admission of guilt by the bank,” the statement clarified. It emphasized that the agreement is aimed at resolving the matter amicably and preserving Ecobank’s long-standing relationship with the people and government of Sierra Leone.
The ACC also highlighted ongoing legal proceedings against Mansaray and three other individuals, Magnus Vincent Cole and Tallu Jalloh, for corruption-related offenses.
The Deputy Director of Public Education and Outreach at the ACC, Abubakarr Turay, reassured the public, saying, “While the settlement addresses the bank’s obligations, the ACC remains committed to pursuing justice in this case. The other accused individuals will face trial, and the court proceedings will continue.”
